Microsoft: Consumer reports of counterfeit software exceeds 150,000

2009-12-04

Consumer reports of counterfeit software, which often contains malware and viruses, have risen to over 150,000 over the last two years, it has been suggested.

Voluntary reports have been sent to Microsoft telling of problems people have come across with counterfeit software, head of global anti-piracy enforcement for Microsoft David Finn explained.

He told Microsoft's PressPass that consumers need to be aware there is a "serious risk" when it comes to using counterfeit software and they do not need to get themselves in any trouble.

"More and more consumers believe they are at risk if they buy or use counterfeit software, and you know what? They're right to be concerned," Mr Finn commented.

He added that software pirates "tamper with genuine code" a lot today.

Last month, Microsoft research indicated that rogue security software is the top threat for organisations to watch out for.

This was despite 20 per cent fewer customers being affected by rogue infections over the six months prior to the study.

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